Sydney readies for carnival

At the last autumn carnival in Sydney, punters bet more than $229 million and took home more than $18 million in prize money.

Sydneysiders opened 13,500 bottles of French champagne at the David Jones Australian Derby Day and the 2009 AAMI Golden Slipper alone.

But organisers of this year’s carnival are tipping even bigger things. Because fears of a recession seem to be over, they estimate punters will spend a further $20 million, taking total betting to about $250 million.

Retail won’t do too badly either – its cash injection is estimated to reach more than $10 million. About 50,000 canapés were eaten last year at the Golden Slipper and Derby Day and you can bet most of those were in the marquees.

This year, the likes of David Jones, Emirates and Sydney City Lexus will compete for punters. David Jones has announced a black-and-white theme for its Derby Day marquee. Emirates is opting for something more exotic with an Indian theme.

The Oaks lawn marquee will also house 600 delegates from around the world, who are in Sydney for the Asian racing conference.

Rosehill will host the Golden Slipper and a raft of celebrities are expected to join in the fun, including model
Jennifer Hawkins
and Miss Universe Australia Rachael Finch.

The carnival takes place from March 20 to April 24. The first three Saturdays are at Rosehill and the next three at Randwick. Golden Slipper day is on April 3 and Derby Day is on April 10. For more information see www.sydneyautumncarnival2010.com.au